Evidence supporting the use of: Candleberry
For the health condition: Insect Repellant
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Candleberry (Myrica cerifera), also known as wax myrtle or bayberry, has a long history of traditional use as an insect repellent. Indigenous peoples and early settlers in North America reportedly used the leaves and berries of the plant, often burning them or making candles, to ward off mosquitoes and other insects. The aromatic compounds released by burning Candleberry are believed to have insect-repelling properties. However, while the historical and ethnobotanical literature documents this usage, there is limited scientific research to validate its efficacy. Few modern studies have isolated or tested the active compounds in Candleberry for their insect-repellent qualities. Most of the available evidence remains anecdotal or based on tradition rather than controlled scientific trials. As such, while Candleberry is used for this purpose in folk practices and has a basis in tradition, the overall strength of evidence supporting its effectiveness as an insect repellent is moderate to weak.
Other ingredients used for Insect Repellant
allspicebeta-pinene
betel
black walnut
garlic bulb
lavender
peppermint oil
clerodendrum indicum
paederia foetida
lemongrass
eucalyptus
camphor oil
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
Alpha-terpineol
Alchornea
Asam gelugor
allyl isothiocyanate
Babchi
Baphicacanthus cusia
Black spruce
Brazillian peppertree
Bisabolene
Baccharoides anthelmintica
Backhousia citriodora
Candleberry
Calotropis gigantea
Cajuput
Cedar
Cedrus libani
Castile Soap
Chiococca alba
Citronella
Devil's Club
Davilla rugosa
English Horsemint
Other health conditions supported by Candleberry
Bruises (healing)Burns and Scalds
Insect Repellant
Scratches and Abrasions
Wounds and Sores